In a stern critique, The Economist, a globally respected journal has expressed profound concerns over Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's development policies, alleging a departure from secular values and a negative impact on the nation's economy.
Highlighting the controversy surrounding the recent inauguration of a $220 million Hindu temple on January 22, The Economist challenged Modi's claim to be a secular leader, arguing that such initiatives contradict the principles of religious harmony.
The journal, echoing this sentiment, pointed out that building a temple with potential repercussions for the sentiments of millions of Muslims is raising alarms among secular-minded Indians.
The editorial further accused the Modi government of attempting to emulate Jawaharlal Nehru under a cloak of deceit, suggesting that Modi's policies may be misleading the public.
#India PM #NarendraModi's inauguration of controversial $220m #RamMandir on Jan 22 belies his claims of being secular.
— SAMAA TV (@SAMAATV) January 20, 2024
The Economist says Modi's misguided policies hurting India's economy#SamaaTV pic.twitter.com/V8BMubUh4X
The Economist, drawing parallels with historical events, asserted that the Modi government's preparations to demolish the Babri Masjid since 1990 were allegedly driven by electoral motives.
Expressing concerns over rising Islamophobia, The Economist accused Modi of engaging in anti-Islam activities that could further exacerbate religious tensions in the country.
The editorial pointed to Modi's alleged role in the 2002 Gujarat riots, asserting that he started the violence to win elections and attempted to commit genocide against Muslims. The journal criticized the Indian justice system for acquitting all the individuals implicated in the riots despite substantial evidence.
The Economist also highlighted the Modi government's promotion of anti-conversion laws in several BJP-ruled states, suggesting a trend towards restricting religious freedom. The editorial further accused the government of intensifying Islamophobia through discriminatory citizenship laws, narrowing the focus onto Muslims.
In a stark warning, The Economist predicted that a potential victory for the Modi government in the recent election would only serve to bolster Hindutva ideologies in India, potentially deepening religious divides in the nation.
